The defendants are believed to have feared they would be prosecuted for their past activities in support of Hong Kong's democratic opposition. Relatives of the defendants say that they have been prevented from hiring their own lawyers and that the accusations are politically motivated. They were picked up after entering mainland Chinese waters for crossing the maritime border without permission. While Hong Kong is part of China, travellers must still pass through immigration when going to and from the mainland. The defendants apparently needed to pass through Chinese waters to get to open seas.

Source: CBC News December 29, 2020 07:52 UTC